GRAHAM — With the graduation of four-year standout Hannah Wells last May, there was an expectation among some that the three-time defending state champion Coahoma Bulldogettes might take a step backward in 2026.

On Saturday at Graham’s Hogan Field, coach Alex Orosco’s team sent a strong message to what few doubters it might still have.

Playing Region II champion Grand Saline in a  one-game Class 3A Division II state semifinal playoff, Coahoma led wire to wire in a dominating effort against the Lady Indians, blasting three home runs on their way to a 13-3 run-rule victory. In the process, the Bulldogettes earned their fifth straight state championship game appearance and an opportunity to extend their state-record title streak to four consecutive years next week against Kingsville Santa Gertrudis Academy — the team against which they started their championship run in 2023.